Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Achyranthes bidentata (Niuxi) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, commonly used in classical Chinese medicine formulas. Its use for treating "urine (scant)"—that is, promoting urination in cases of oliguria or urinary difficulty—has a long history rooted in traditional medical texts. In the Shennong Bencao Jing and other historical texts, Achyranthes bidentata is described as having properties that "promote the flow of water" and "unblock lin syndrome," which corresponds to urinary disorders in modern terms. It is often prescribed to support kidney and bladder function, and to promote diuresis (increased urine flow), especially in formulas targeting edema, dysuria, or scanty urination.

Modern pharmacological research offers some support for its diuretic action: studies in animals have shown that extracts of Achyranthes bidentata can increase urine output, though the evidence is not robust or consistent across all studies, and the quality of clinical trials in humans is low. The mechanisms proposed include anti-inflammatory and vascular effects that might theoretically support urinary output. However, the bulk of its use for scant urination is justified by centuries of traditional use, rather than strong scientific validation. Thus, its use for this purpose is considered traditional with moderate (3/5) evidence based on historical and limited preclinical research.

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